Towards continuously updated simulation models: combining automated raw data collection and automated data processing

Abstract

Discrete Event Simulation (DES) is a powerful tool for efficiency improvements in production. However, instead of integrating the tool in the daily work of production engineers, companies apply it mostly in single-purpose studies such as major investment projects. One significant reason is the extensive timeconsumption for input data management, which has to be performed for every simulation analysis to avoid making decisions based upon obsolete facts. This paper presents an approach that combines automated raw data collection and automated processing of raw data to simulation information. MTConnect is used for collection of raw data and the GDM-Tool is applied for data processing. The purpose is to enable efficient reuse of DES models by reducing the time-consumption for input data management. Furthermore, the approach is evaluated using production data from the aerospace industry.

Integrating data analytics and simulation methods to support manufacturing decision making

“…However, determining the set of inputs that optimize system performance is challenging because simulation optimization necessitates that the decision maker fully understands both the optimization approach and the underlying stochastic processes (Andradóttir 1998). Researchers such as Skoogh et al (2010) published the GDM-Tool for processing input-streaming data with the purpose of enabling the reuse of simulation models. This tool does not process input data for optimizing defined system performance.…”

Integrating realtime project progress input into a construction simulation model

“…Effective input management for simulation models has been recognized to be important in repetitive usage of models (Bengtsson et al 2009;Moon and Phatak 2005;Skoogh, Michaloski, and Bengtsson 2010).…”

“…Simulation models are able to provide the long-term performance analysis for planning and design, but they are rarely used after the project planning and design stage (Moon and Phatak 2005). One main constraint is the time and effort needed in gathering and extracting pertinent information for simulation models (Bengtsson et al 2009;Moon and Phatak 2005;Skoogh, Michaloski, and Bengtsson 2010). This, to some extent, constrains traditional simulation models from repetitive and long-term usage (Moon and Phatak 2005).The lack of tools and methods for timely communication and interaction between model developers and field engineers is also a limiting factor for simulation models to provide long-term continuous support through project execution.…”

User-centric development of simulation based manufacturing operation planning and scheduling system

“…All these standardization efforts could help in getting near realtime status information on manufacturing equipment to be used in simulation analysis. Case studies on application exists, one of the latest case study connects both SISO CMSD and MTConnect standardization [18].…”